When running an independent auto shop or other Automotive Business, there are some specific considerations you need to make aside from just pinpointing a location that’s easy for customers to find. Mike Anderson is an automotive consultant specializing in the collision industry and founder of Collision Advice. He has owned two successful collision shops of his own and now advises other shop owners on the various aspects of running their businesses. He recently spoke with Small Business Trends to offer some tips on finding the best location for your automotive business. Here are some of the top insights. How to Choose the Right Location for Your Automotive Business Consider the Importance of Your Location You already know that location is one of the most important decisions for any small business. But for some automotive businesses, it’s actually not as big of an issue as it would be otherwise. If you get most of your business from insurance carriers, then customers have to find your specific business in order to take advantage of the services provided by their insurance company. So you might be able to save some money by not targeting the most premium business locations. However, some auto shops still choose to make their location a major selling point for other customers. Anderson said in a phone interview with Small Business Trends, “But if your goal is to not be so insurance dependant, then your location is critical. Find a location on a main thoroughfare where customers are more likely to see you.” Make It Convenient for Customers In addition to simply choosing a location that’s easy to find, auto repair businesses should also consider how many customers need to drop their vehicles off and then have options for walking to restaurants or other transportation options. Anderson adds, “If you’re in a major metropolitan area, like let’s say Washington D.C., then it can be beneficial to position your business near public transportation so that if people need to drop off their vehicle they can just jump on the subway.” Use Signage to Attract People Of course, it’s best to…